A
fluid-filled sac (cyst) or tumor forms, destroying surrounding structures such
as bone or tooth roots.

When to Remove Wisdom
Teeth?

People
between the ages of 16 and 19 should have their wisdom teeth evaluated. If they
need to be removed, it should be considered before age 20 when generally fewer
complications occur. At a younger age, tooth roots are not fully developed, the
surrounding bone is softer, and there is less chance of damaging nearby nerves
or other structures. There is also less surgical risk and healing is generally
faster.

Extractions
of wisdom teeth may be performed by a general dentist. If your dentist
anticipates any special care will be needed, he or she may refer you to an oral
or maxillofacial surgeon. An oral or maxillofacial surgeon is a dentist who
specializes in surgery and the removal of wisdom teeth.

What to Expect?

Before surgery, your dentist will explain what to expect, have you
sign a consent form and give you personalized instructions to follow. Keep in
mind these general items in order to help your surgery go smoothly.

Wear loose, comfortable clothing and arrange to have someone be with
you after surgery. Extraction can be performed under local conscious sedation
or general anesthesia. Following surgery, you may experience some swelling and
mild discomfort, which is part of the normal healing process. Cold compresses
can help decrease the swelling and medication prescribed by your dentist can
help decrease the pain. You may be instructed to drink only clear liquids
following surgery and later progress to soft foods.

Some patients experience numbness or tingling following surgery.
Normal sensation usually returns in a short period of time. Occasionally, a dry
socket occurs when the blood clot breaks down earlier than normal. A dressing
placed in the socket protects it until the socket heals.

Talk with your dentist about any questions that you have. It is
especially important to let your dentist know, before surgery, of any illness
that you have and medications that you are taking. If your general dentist has
referred you to a specialist, they will both work together to provide you with
the best and most efficient care. Keeping your teeth healthy – to a wise old
age – is your dentist’s primary concern.

About Me

William
H. Kingery, DDS,
Dr. Mary’s brother, earned his dental degree from the
University of Tennessee Center of Health Sciences, after
which he also served as a dentist in the US Air Force.
He is a member of the AGD and ADA, as well as the
Forsyth County and North Carolina Dental Societies. Dr.
Kingery has taken numerous postgraduate education
courses, specifically selecting courses focusing on
comprehensive restorative care. His most recent training
is in mini implants, providing him with a new way to
give you the smile of your dreams.

Dr. William Kingery and his wife Terry have three grown
children, Will, Tiffany, and Michelle. He supports the
community in many ways, with Toys for Tots and
participating in the local fair. In his spare time, Dr.
Kingery enjoys boating, skiing, and traveling.

Dr. William Kingery and Dr. Mary Kingery provide the following dental care services in Clemmons NC: